Roman and Other Yellow Glass Bead Necklace String

Round-section hoop with hook-and-eye closure, discoid bezel formed as six concentric circles punched to the centre with raised central part. 2.09 grams, 18.81 mm overall, 14.97 x 12.86 mm internal diameter (approximate size British F, USA 2 3/4, Europe 3.67, Japan 3)



From the collection of a gentleman born in the late 19th century, formed 1940s-1970s. From an old Staffordshire family collection; thence by descent.

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 31.5 grams total, 13-21 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term token is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

Modelled in the round with a lion skin mantle over his extended forearm, standing nude with a club raised over his shoulder; provided with a contemporary custom-made stand. 244 grams, 13.5 cm



Private collection, USA and Switzerland, before 1992; thence by descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13195-249254.

This type of representation of Hercules, inspired by Etruscan or Italic models, was widespread in Gallo-Roman sanctuaries dedicated to the god, where several votive statues attributable to this type have been found. The musculature of the back is well-executed, as are the facial features and the details on the Nemean lion's skin.